Friday, March 01, 2013

It is time for the North London derby on Sunday and it has been billed as the biggest for years. According to Santi Cazorla, this is something the Arsenal players should be relishing. Highlighting the importance of Sunday’s match at White Hart Lane, it must be noted that even if the local rivalry was put aside – this is a big game for the Gunners.

If a top four finish is the main aim between now and the end of the season, then this contest against a team two place and four points above Arsenal in 5th is significant. Arsene Wenger’s men have a good history of doing enough to secure a top four finish, but seven points between themselves and a fellow contender at this stage of the season would not be ideal. Then, after the disastrous defeats to Blackburn and Bayern Munich, confidence needs to be restored, both for the fans and players. If Arsenal are to finish strongly, they need a positive result.

So, the need for points is huge, the need for a moral boosting win is huge and Arsenal are in action at the home of their fierce London rivals. In many ways, it doesn’t get much bigger does it?

A team of Arsenal’s quality should rise to this type of occasion though, something Cazorla – who scored twice in the much needed win over Aston Villa this weekend – is urging his team to do.

The Spaniard told Arsenal.com:

“It is very important, not just because it is a great rivalry or that it is Tottenham versus Arsenal, but the fact that they're a side with great players who are fighting with us for a top-four spot.

“To beat them and get into the top four and the Champions League, which is our aim for the season, is essential. We know how important it is and I hope we can rise to the challenge.”

Cazorla has been one of the shining lights during a frustrating season of course and is one of a number of players that will look to make the difference on Sunday.

Tottenham star man Gareth Bale has got plenty of the attention in the build up and he is one to watch, but Arsenal have their own match winners.

It is time for Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere, Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and indeed Cazorla to show that, although Arsenal are disappointed with their season as a whole, they are still the best team in North London.